World Music CD Reviews Reggae & Caribbean

One of reggae’s top rhythm teams pays tribute to a legendary producer. A decade ago, they did a similar Studio One project and scored a smash with Dawn Penn’s remake of “(No, No, No) You Don’t LoveMe.” Joe Gibbs’ back catalog is also rich, including such classics as Dennis Brown’s “Money In My Pocket,” done here by Glen Washington. Culture’s “Two Sevens Clash” now boasts the additional energy of Anthony B while Sean Paul and Sasha cover “I’m Still In Love With You,” the rhythm familiar to every reggae fan through Althea and Donna’s “Uptown Top Ranking.” Other highlights include Luciano joining the Mighty Diamonds on a remake of their “Identity” and Ce’cile with Barrington Levy on “My Woman.” Best of all are two versions of J.C. Lodge’s “Someone Loves You Honey,” including one with Junior Kelly. Ironically, though the song was arguably Gibbs’ biggest international hit, it was also the source of his demise as a producer. He had to pay so much in royalties to those who owned the “adapted” material that he was forced into bankruptcy.